Plate Bearing Tests Explained

Plate bearing tests, commonly referred to as “plate load tests” or “CBRs” are a quick and effective way to simulate an imposed load on the ground. The test has a range of implications, with the most common being to determine likely settlement under a specified load (for example for a crane mat), or to obtain a CBR value for road/pavement design.

The test involves applying a specified load to a steel plate and recording the settlement of the plate. The load is applied via a hydraulic jack, with the use of a reaction weight or “kentledge.” The kentledge must be sufficient in weight to not be lifted during the test, a common example is a large, tracked excavator.

Digital dial gauges are assembled on the plate, suspended from an independent datum bar. Readings are taken at different points around the plate during loading to account for any differential settlement. The degree of loading is congruent to the proposed load, and the plate size can vary from 150mm to 600mm diameter.

The test should be completed in accordance with BS 1377:Part 9: 1990: Clause 4.1. An example of a completed result sheet is show below;

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